Contraceptive transcervical fallopian tube occlusion devices and methods
US6705323B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 8, 1998 |
| Grant date | Mar 16, 2004 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 8, 2018 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T29/49826
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
The invention provides intrafallopian devices and non-surgical methods for their placement to prevent conception. The efficacy of the device is enhanced by forming the structure at least in part from copper or a copper alloy. The device is anchored within the fallopian tube by a lumen-traversing region of the resilient structure which has a helical outer surface, together with a portion of the resilient structure which is biased to form a bent secondary shape, the secondary shape having a larger cross-section than the fallopian tube. The resilient structure is restrained in a straight configuration and transcervically inserted within the fallopian tube, where it is released. Optionally, permanent sterilization is effected by passing a current through the resilient structure to the tubal walls.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.